All branches of the North Bergen Free Public Library now have contactless self-checkout through a computer system.
Meescan self-checkout is a contactless way to get books from the libraries using the tablet computer. Contactless operations work to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by eliminating unnecessary human interaction.
Meescan is available at all three libraries: the main library at 8411 Bergenline Ave., the Kennedy Branch at 2123 Kennedy Blvd., and the Guttenberg Resource Center at Galaxy Towers Mall lower level at 7002 Blvd. East.
COVID-19 precautions
The library has been operating on a Grab’n’Go model since allowing residents inside again, meaning grab a book and go. To accommodate the limited maximum occupancy at each facility, lingering in the library is discouraged. Library use is limited to one hour per day.
Computer use is limited to one hour, and masks are required. Browsing is allowed, but gloves must be worn, available at any staff station.
The library’s children’s room reopened on Oct. 1. Patrons over the age of two are required to wear masks and keep them on, covering both the nose and the mouth, at all times.
The three computers available in the children’s department are reserved only for children and teens, and use is limited to one hour a day.
Virtual and in-person programming
The library has been home to a slew of virtual content since the onset of the pandemic.
From weekly take-home crafts featuring instruction on Zoom, to the virtual Book Club, there are a variety of online activities hosted by the libraries on a weekly basis.
The virtual library is open all the time. Residents can access e-books and audiobooks, and stream music and movies via Libby and Hoopla. For more information, visit nbpl.org.
In-person programming is also making a comeback.
As part of the township’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, residents and guests gathered in the parking lot of the library’s main building to enjoy a performance by the five-piece mariachi band, Mariachi Sol Mixteco.
The Kennedy Branch and the Guttenberg Resource Center are open Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.; Friday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and is closed Sunday.
The Main Branch on Bergenline has the same hours as the Kennedy Branch but is open Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.
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